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Jasprit Bumrah, India’s unparalleled fast bowler, provides an intimate look into his cricket journey, shedding light on the unique aspects of his bowling style, passion for Test cricket, and reflections on the recent World Cup final. In a candid conversation with The Guardian from his home in Ahmedabad, Bumrah discusses the origins of his distinctive action, his love for fast bowling, and his aspirations for the future.
Bumrah, now 30, confesses that he was unaware of his unorthodox style until he saw a video of himself during a national junior camp. The sling-shot action, which sets him apart in world cricket, has become his strength. Reflecting on this, Bumrah says, “I may have gotten jumbled up from watching lots of different bowlers on television, but I’ve been fortunate: no coach has ever tried to change me.”
Origins of the Yorker: A Quiet Afternoon Innovation
The evolution of Bumrah’s lethal yorker, a weapon that has rattled many top-order batsmen, traces back to his childhood. Bumrah shares a delightful anecdote about how he developed the yorker by bowling into the skirting board during hot afternoons. Little did he know that this improvised practice would turn into a match-winning skill on the international stage.
Bumrah reveals that his fascination with fast bowling started during his childhood, with no specific hero but an inclination toward bowlers who dominated the game. Despite achieving success in T20 cricket, including five IPL titles, Bumrah emphasizes his preference for Test cricket. He attributes his skill development to first-class cricket, stating, “In Test cricket, you have to get the batsman out, and that challenges you as a bowler.”
Facing England’s Aggressive Approach: “As a Bowler, You’re in the Game”
As England gears up with their aggressive Bazball approach, Bumrah sees an opportunity for bowlers. He acknowledges England’s successful cricket but believes that their attacking style keeps bowlers in the game. Bumrah states, “As a bowler, what I think is that it keeps me in play. And if they’re going for it, playing so fast, they won’t tire me out, I could get heaps [of wickets]. I always think about how I can use things to my advantage.”
Reflecting on India’s heart-wrenching loss in the T20 World Cup final, Bumrah admits the pain but emphasizes the need to move on. Looking forward, he expresses his eagerness for the upcoming Test series against England. When asked about captaining the Test side, Bumrah reveals, “Playing Test cricket is great, captaining was even better. Yes, we lost, but I loved the responsibility. And given the opportunity, of course, who wouldn’t?”
A Smile in the Face of Adversity
Known for his ever-present smile on the field, Bumrah attributes it to self-taught lessons. Originally adopting an aggressive demeanour, he realized that it did not align with his nature. “I had to channel my anger because I am a fast bowler, I do get angry. I don’t want to get hit; I’m not here to entertain or give throwdowns, I want wickets,” he explains. “Playing for India was my dream, and when I get tired, I always remind myself of this. That’s where the smile is from.”
Looking ahead, Bumrah remains focused on the present, expressing hopes of continuing his unique action for years to come. While he doesn’t look too far ahead, he affirms, “I know for sure wherever I am, I will be happy.”
As India anticipates the Test series against England, cricket fans worldwide await another display of Bumrah’s extraordinary skills, hoping to witness more unforgettable moments in his illustrious career.
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